Local Festivals and Attractions in Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Witness a blend of traditions and modernity and discover the Maldives through its local culture and festivities.

1

Eid-ul Al'h'aa

Eid-ul Al'h'aa falls on the 10th day on Zul Hijja in the Islamic Calendar. Eid is a time for celebrations and feasting. The holiday lasts five to seven days, the longest annual holiday for the Maldivians.

2

Prophet's Birthday

Maldivians celebrate the Prophet's Birthday on the 12th day of Rabee-ul-Awwal in the Islamic Calendar. Families invite one another to their homes to share the special dishes prepared for the day.

3

Kuda Eid

Kuda Eid is the first day of the month of Shawaal in the Islamic Calendar. This follows the end of Ramadan and is a period of feasting. Early in the morning, men and women gather at the mosque to perform prayer. At each house a feast is prepared and family, friends and neighbours are invited.

4

Independence Day

Maldivians celebrate their Independence Day on July 26. The highlight of the day is the official celebrations held in the evening at the Republic Square. The event begins with a march past by the National Security Service and the National Cadet Corps. This is followed by drills, traditional dances and modern drills performed by hundreds of school children in colourful attire. These events are interceded by the passing of floats and processions depicting traditional and modern themes.

5

Republic Day

On November 11 1968, Maldives became a republic for the second time. The day is celebrated every year with parades and marches.

6

National Day

National Day, held on the 1st of Rabee ul Awwal, the 3rd month in the Islamic Calendar, celebrates the great victory of Mohamed Thakurufaanu over the Portuguese in 1573.